Catalog Information and Basic University Policies

The Catalog

The University’s eCatalog/mobile catalog is produced in the Office of Undergraduate Studies, which has overall responsibility for structure, layout, and editing. For questions and additional information please contact the Office of Undergraduate Studies.

Changes in Rules and Policies

Although every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this catalog, students and others who use this catalog should note that laws, rules, and policies change from time to time and that these changes may alter the information contained in this publication.

Although every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this catalog, students and others who use this catalog should note that laws, rules, and policies change from time to time and that these changes may alter the information contained in this publication.

Changes may come in the form of statutes enacted by the Legislature, rules and policies adopted by the Board of Trustees of the California State University, by the chancellor or designee of the California State University, or by the president or designee of the university. It is not possible in a publication of this size to include all of the rules, policies and other information that pertain to students, the institution, and the California State University. More current or complete information may be obtained from the appropriate department, school, or administrative office.

Nothing in this catalog shall be construed as, operate as, or have the effect of an abridgment or a limitation of any rights, powers, or privileges of the Board of Trustees of the California State University, the chancellor of the California State University, or the president of the university. The trustees, the chancellor, and the president are authorized by law to adopt, amend, or repeal rules and policies that apply to students. This catalog does not constitute a contract or the terms and conditions of a contract between the student and the university or the California State University. The relationship of students to the university and the California State University is one governed by statute, rules, and policy adopted by the legislature, the trustees, the chancellor, the presidents and their duly authorized designees.

Familiarity with the Institution’s rules and regulations published in this catalog shall be the responsibility of each student and faculty member, and of those administrative offices concerned with academic matters.

Nondiscrimination Policy and Complaint Procedures

Protected Status:

Age, Genetic Information, Marital Status, Medical Condition, Nationality, Race or Ethnicity (including color, caste, or ancestry), Religion or Religious Creed, and Veteran or Military Status

California State University does not discriminate on the basis of age, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, nationality, race or ethnicity (including color, caste and ancestry), religion (or religious creed), and veteran or military status - as these terms are defined in the CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) in its programs and activities, including admission and access. Federal and state laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the California Equity in Higher Education Act, prohibit such discrimination. The Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, located in Student Services Building 6381, has been designated to coordinate the efforts of Cal State L.A. to comply with all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination on these bases. Inquiries concerning compliance may be presented to the Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion listed above. CSU Procedures for Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against a Student, (or any successor policy) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints or discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against other CSU students. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against an Employee or Third-Party: Procedures for Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation Made Against an Employee or Third-Party (or any successor procedure) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against the CSU, a CSU employee or a third party).

Protected Status:

Disability

The California State University does not discriminate on the basis of disability (physical and mental) - as this term is defined in the CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) - in its programs and activities, including admission and access. Federal and state laws, including sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, prohibit such discrimination. The Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, located in Student Services Building 6381, has been designated to coordinate the efforts of  Cal State LA. to comply with all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability. Inquiries concerning compliance may be presented to the Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion ( Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (323) 343 3040, or TDD: (323) 343-3670) at Cal State LA. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against a Student (or any successor procedure) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against, other CSU students. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against an Employee or Third-Party (or any successor procedure) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against the CSU, a CSU employee or a third party)

Protected Status:

Gender (or sex), Gender Identity (including nonbinary and transgender), Gender Expression and Sexual Orientation

California State University does not discriminate on the basis of gender (or sex), gender (including nonbinary and transgender), gender expression or sexual orientation - as these terms are defined in CSU policy - in its programs and activities, including admission and access. Federal and state laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, prohibit such discrimination. The Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, located in Student Services Building 6381, has been designated to coordinate the efforts of Cal State L.A. to comply with all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination on these bases. Inquiries concerning compliance may be presented to the Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (323) 343 3040, or TDD: (323) 343-3670) at Cal State L.A. The California State University is committed to providing equal opportunities to all CSU students in all university programs, including intercollegiate athletics. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against a Student (or any successor) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against other CSU students. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against an Employee or Third-Party (or any successor procedure) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against the CSU, a CSU employee or a third party).

As a matter of federal and state law and California State University policy, the following types of conduct are prohibited:

Sex Discrimination or Gender Discrimination is (an) adverse action taken against a complainant because of their protected status(sex or gender).

Adverse Action means an action engaged in by the respondent that has a substantial and material adverse effect on the complainant’s ability to participate in a university program, activity, or employment. Minor or trivial actions or conduct not reasonably likely to do more than anger or upset a complainant does not constitute an adverse action.

Sexual Harassment means unwelcome verbal, nonverbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that includes, but is not limited to, sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, offering employment benefits or giving preferential treatment in exchange for sexual favors, or indecent exposure, and any other conduct of a sexual nature where:

1. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct is explicitly or implicitly used as the basis for any decision affecting a Complainant’s academic status or progress, or access to benefits and services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the university; or
2. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the Complainant is explicitly or implicitly used as the basis for any decision affecting a term or condition of the Complainant’s employment, or an employment decision; or
3. The conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that its effect, whether or not intended, could be considered by a reasonable person in the shoes of the Complainant, and is in fact considered by the Complainant, as limiting their ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or opportunities offered by the university; or
4. The conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that its effect, whether or not intended, could be considered by a reasonable person in the shoes of the Complainant, and is in fact considered by the Complainant, as creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

Sexual Misconduct

All sexual activity between members of the CSU community must be based on Affirmative Consent. Engaging in any sexual activity without first obtaining Affirmative Consent to the specific activity is Sexual Misconduct, whether or not the conduct violates any civil or criminal law.

1. Sexual activity includes, but is not limited to:

• Kissing
• touching intimate body parts
• fondling
• intercourse
• penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any part or object
• oral copulation of a sex organ by another person.

2. Sexual Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following conduct:

• an attempt, coupled with the ability, to commit a violent injury on the person of another because of that person’s Gender or Sex,
• the intentional touching of another person’s intimate body parts without Affirmative Consent,
• intentionally causing a person to touch the intimate body parts of another without Affirmative Consent,
• using a person’s own intimate body part to intentionally touch another person’s body without Affirmative Consent,
• any unwelcome physical sexual acts, such as unwelcome sexual touching,
• using physical force, violence, threat, or intimidation to engage in sexual activity,
• ignoring the objections of the other person to engage in sexual activity,
• causing the other person’s incapacitation through the use of drugs or alcohol to engage in sexual activity,
• taking advantage of the other person’s incapacitation to engage in sexual activity.

3. Intimate body part means the sexual organ, anus, groin, buttocks, or breasts of any person.
4. Sexual activity between a Minor (a person younger than 18 years old) and a person who is at least 18 and two years older than the Minor always constitutes Sexual Misconduct, even if there is Affirmative Consent to all sexual activity. The existence of Affirmative Consent and/or the type of sexual activity may be relevant to the determination of an appropriate Sanction.
5. Persons of all Genders, Gender Identities, Gender Expressions, and Sexual Orientations can be victims of these forms of Sexual Misconduct. Sexual Misconduct can be committed by an individual known to the victim including a person the Complainant may have just met, i.e., at a party, introduced through a friend, or on a social networking website.

Affirmative Consent

1. Informed
2. Affirmative
3. Conscious
4. Voluntary and
5. Mutual
6. Lack of protest or resistance does not mean there is Affirmative Consent.
7. Silence does not mean there is Affirmative Consent.
8. The existence of a dating or social relationship between those involved, or the fact of past sexual activities between them, should never by itself be assumed to be an indicator of Affirmative Consent.
9. A request for someone to use a condom or birth control does not, in and of itself, mean there is Affirmative Consent.
10. Affirmative Consent can be withdrawn or revoked. Consent must be ongoing throughout a sexual activity and can be revoked at any time, including after sexual activity begins. Once consent is withdrawn or revoked, the sexual activity must stop immediately. Consent to one form of sexual activity (or one sexual act) does not constitute consent to other forms of sexual activity. Consent given to sexual activity on one occasion does not constitute consent on another occasion.

Incapacitation

1. The person was asleep or unconscious;
2. The person was incapacitated due to the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication, so that the person could not understand the fact, nature, or extent of the sexual activity; or
3. The person could not understand the fact, nature, or extent of the sexual activity, or was unable to communicate, due to a mental or physical condition.

Dating Violence and Domestic Violence

Dating Violence means physical violence or threat of physical violence committed by a person:

1. Who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the Complainant; and
2. Where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:

• The length of the relationship.
• The type of relationship.
• The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Domestic Violence means physical violence or threat of physical violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant.

Physical violence means physical conduct that intentionally or recklessly threatens the health and safety of the recipient of the behavior, including assault.

Stalking

Stalking means engaging in a Course of Conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the safety of self or others’ safety or to suffer Substantial Emotional Distress. For purposes of this definition:

1. Course of Conduct means two or more acts, including but not limited to, acts in which one party directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about the other party, or interferes with the other party’s property.
2. Substantial Emotional Distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may but does not necessarily require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

Prohibited Consensual Relationships 

Retaliation

Retaliation means that a substantial motivating reason for an Adverse Action taken against a person was because the person has or is believed to have:

1. Exercised their rights under this policy,
2. Reported or opposed conduct which was reasonably and in good faith believed to be in violation of this policy,
3. Assisted or participated in an investigation/proceeding under this policy, regardless of whether the Complaint was substantiated,
4. Assisted someone in reporting or opposing a violation of this policy or assisted someone in reporting or opposing Retaliation under this policy.

Adverse Action means an action engaged in by the Respondent that has a substantial and material adverse effect on the Complainant’s ability to participate in a university program, activity, or employment. Minor or trivial actions or conduct not reasonably likely to do more than anger or upset a Complainant does not constitute an Adverse Action.

Retaliation may occur whether or not there is a power or authority differential between the individuals involved.

Additional Prohibited Conduct Definitions

1. Sexual Harassment means conduct on the basis of Sex that satisfies one or more of the following:
   • An Employee conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the University on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct;
   • Unwelcome conduct determined based on the reasonable person standard to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to an Education Program or Activity.
2. Sexual Assault includes the following:
   • Rape is the penetration, or attempted penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the Affirmative Consent of the Complainant. Rape also includes the attempted penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the Affirmative Consent of the Complainant, with the present ability and the intent to commit Rape.
   • Fondling is the touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the Affirmative Consent of the victim, including instances where the Complainant is incapable of giving Affirmative Consent because of their age or because of their temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
   • Incest is sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
   • Statutory Rape is sexual intercourse with a person who is under the age of 18 years, the California statutory age of consent. The definition of Affirmative Consent is that under Article VII.A.3 above.
   • Dating Violence means physical violence or threat of physical violence committed by a person:
     1. who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the Complainant; and
     2. where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:
        • The length of the relationship.
        • The type of relationship.
        • The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
3. Domestic Violence means physical violence or threat of physical violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant.
4. Stalking means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to:
   • fear for their safety or the safety of others; or
   • suffer substantial emotional distress.

See further information in Cal State LA sexual violence prevention and education statement, Title IX Notice of Nondiscrimination (which includes facts and myths about sexual violence), and Victim’s Rights and Options Notice, at The Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. 

Whom to Contact If You Have Complaints, Questions or Concerns

Title IX requires the university to designate a Title IX Coordinator to monitor and oversee overall Title IX compliance. The university Title IX Coordinator is available to explain and discuss the university’s complaint process, including the investigation and hearing process; the availability of reasonable supportive measures (both on and off campus regardless of whether the person chooses to report the conduct); the right to file a criminal complaint (for example, in cases of sexual misconduct); how confidentiality is handled; and other related matters. If you are in the midst of an emergency, please call the police immediately by dialing 9-1-1.

Campus Title IX Coordinator:
• Mariel Mulet (mmulet@calstatela.edu)
• The Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
• Phone: 323-343-3040
• M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

University Police
• Larry Bohannon, Director of Public Safety /Chief of Police
• BLDG 46
• Phone: 323-343-3700 / Fax: 323-221-6350

Title IX requires the university to adopt and publish complaint procedures that provide for prompt and equitable resolution of gender discrimination complaints, including sexual harassment and misconduct, as well as provide training, education and preventive measures related to sex discrimination. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against a Student (or any successor) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against, other CSU students. CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against an Employee or Third-Party (or any successor procedure) is the systemwide procedure for all complaints of discrimination, harassment or retaliation made against the CSU, a CSU employee or a third party.

Duty to Report

Except as provided below under confidentiality and sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, any university employee who knows or has reason to know of allegations or acts that violate university policy shall promptly inform the Title IX Coordinator. These employees are required to disclose all information including the names of the parties, even where the person has requested that their name remain confidential. The Title IX Coordinator will determine whether confidentiality is appropriate given the circumstances of each such incident. (See confidential reporting options outlined below.)

Regardless of whether an alleged victim of gender discrimination ultimately files a complaint, if the university knows or has reason to know about possible sexual discrimination, harassment or misconduct, it must review the matter to determine if an investigation is warranted. The university must then take appropriate steps to eliminate any gender discrimination/harassment/misconduct, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects.

Information Regarding Campus, Criminal and Civil Consequences of Committing Acts of Sexual Violence

Individuals alleged to have committed sexual misconduct may face criminal prosecution by law enforcement and may incur penalties as a result of civil litigation. In addition, students may face discipline at the university, up to and including suspension or expulsion and withholding of their degrees. Employees may face sanctions up to and including suspension, demotion or dismissal from employment, pursuant to established CSU policies and provisions of applicable collective bargaining unit agreements.

Students who are found responsible by the university with gender discrimination, harassment or sexual misconduct will be subject to discipline, pursuant to CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation (Nondiscrimination Policy) Made Against a Students and the California State University and Student Conduct Procedures (see the Student Conduct Procedures Policy, revised on August 14, 2020, or any successor policy) and will be subject to appropriate sanctions. In addition, during any investigation, the university may implement interim measures in order to maintain a safe and non-discriminatory educational environment. Such measures may include but not be limited to: immediate interim suspension from the university; a required move from university-owned or affiliated housing; adjustments to course schedule; and/or prohibition from contact with parties involved in the alleged incident.

Confidentiality and Sexual Violence, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence and Stalking

The university encourages victims of sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence or stalking to talk to someone about what happened - so they can get the support they need, and so the university can respond appropriately.

Privileged and Confidential Communications

Physicians, Psychotherapists, Professional Licensed Counselors, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and Clergy - Physicians, psychotherapists, professional, licensed counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and clergy who work or volunteer on or off campus, acting solely in those roles or capacities as part of their employment, and who provide medical or mental health treatment or counseling (and those who act under their supervision, including all individuals who work or volunteer in their centers and offices) may not report any information about an incident of sexual misconduct to anyone else at the university, including the Title IX Coordinator, without the victim’s consent. A victim can seek assistance and support from physicians, psychotherapists, professional, licensed counselors, licensed clinical social workers and clergy without triggering a university investigation that could reveal the victim’s identity or the fact of the victim’s disclosure. However, see limited exceptions below regarding when health care practitioners must report to local law enforcement agencies. Health care practitioners should explain these limited exceptions to victims, if applicable.

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Counselors and Advocates - Sexual assault and domestic violence counselors and advocates who work or volunteer on or off campus in sexual assault centers, victim advocacy offices, women’s centers and health centers (including those who act in that role under their supervision, along with non-professional counselors or advocates who work or volunteer in sexual assault centers, victim advocacy offices, women’s centers, gender equity centers, or health centers), may talk to a victim without revealing any information about the victim and the incident of sexual misconduct to anyone else at the university, including the Title IX Coordinator, without the victim’s consent. A victim can seek assistance and support from these counselors and advocates without triggering a university investigation that could reveal his/her identity or that a victim disclosed an incident to them. However, see limited exceptions below regarding when sexual assault and domestic violence counselors and advocates must report to local law enforcement agencies. Counselors and advocates should explain these limited exceptions to victims, if applicable.

The university will be unable to conduct an investigation into a particular incident or pursue disciplinary action against a perpetrator if a victim chooses to:

1. Speak only to a physician, professional licensed counselor, licensed clinical social worker, clergy member, sexual assault counselor, domestic violence counselor or advocate; and
2. Maintain complete confidentiality. Even so, these individuals will assist victims in receiving other necessary protection and support, such as victim advocacy, disability services, medical/health or mental health services, or legal services, and will advise victims regarding their right to file a Title IX complaint with the university and a separate complaint with local or university police.

If a victim insists on confidentiality, such professionals, counselors and advocates will likely not be able to assist the victim with: university academic support or accommodations; changes to university-based living or working schedules; or adjustments to course schedules. A victim who at first requests confidentiality may later decide to file a complaint with the university or report the incident to the police, and thus have the incident fully investigated. These counselors and advocates can provide victims with that assistance if requested by the victim. These counselors and advocates will also explain that Title IX includes protections against retaliation, and that the university will not only take steps to prevent retaliation when it knows or reasonably should know of possible retaliation, but will also take strong responsive action if retaliation occurs.

EXCEPTIONS:

Under California law, any health practitioner employed in a health facility, clinic, physician’s office, or local or state public health department or clinic is required to make a report to local law enforcement if the health practitioner provides medical services for a physical condition to a patient/victim who the health practitioner knows or reasonably suspects is suffering from:

1. A wound or physical injury inflicted by a firearm; or
2. Any wound or other physical injury inflicted upon a victim where the injury is the result of assaultive or abusive conduct (including sexual misconduct, domestic violence, and dating violence).

This exception does not apply to sexual assault and domestic violence counselors and advocates. Health care practitioners should explain this limited exception to victims, if applicable.

Additionally, under California law, all professionals described above (physicians, psychotherapists, professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, clergy, and sexual assault and domestic violence counselors and advocates) are mandatory child abuse and neglect reporters, and are required to report incidents involving victims under 18 years of age to local law enforcement. These professionals will explain this limited exception to victims, if applicable.

Finally, some or all of these professionals may also have reporting obligations under California law to:

1. Local law enforcement in cases involving threats of immediate or imminent harm to self or others where disclosure of the information is necessary to prevent the threatened danger; or
2. To the court if compelled by court order or subpoena in a criminal proceeding related to the sexual misconduct, dating or domestic violence, or stalking incident.

If applicable, these professionals will explain this limited exception to victims.

Reporting to University or Local Police

If a victim reports to local or university police about sexual misconduct crimes, the police are required to notify victims that their names will become a matter of public record unless confidentiality is requested. If a victim requests that their identity be kept confidential, their name will not become a matter of public record. However, even if the victim requests confidentiality of identity, the University Police should specifically ask the victim if the victim’s name can be provided to the Title IX Office so that the Title IX Coordinator can contact the victim to discuss supportive measures that can be offered. If a victim gives consent to law enforcement to provide their name to the Title IX Coordinator, their name will not become a matter of public record. Even if a victim does not give the police permission to provide their name to the Title IX Coordinator, University police will report the facts of the incident itself to the Title IX Coordinator being sure not to reveal to the Title IX Coordinator victim names/identities or compromise their own criminal investigation. The university is required by the federal Clery Act to report certain types of crimes (including certain sex offenses) in statistical reports. However, while the university will report the type of incident in the annual crime statistics report known as the Annual Security Report, victim names/identities will not be revealed.

Reporting to the Title IX Coordinator and Other University Employees

Most university employees have a duty to report incidents of sexual misconduct when they are on notice of it. When a victim tells the Title IX Coordinator or another university employee about an incident of sexual misconduct, the victim has the right to expect the university to take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate what happened and to resolve the matter promptly and equitably. In all cases, the university strongly encourages victims to report incidents of sexual misconduct directly to the university Title IX Coordinator. As detailed above, in the “Privileged and Confidential Communications” section of this policy, all university employees except physicians, licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, sexual assault counselors and advocates, must report to the Title IX Coordinator all relevant details about any incidents of sexual misconduct of which they become aware. The university will need to determine what happened - and will need to know the names of the victim(s) and the perpetrator(s), any witnesses, and any other relevant facts, including the date, time and specific location of the incident.

To the extent possible, information reported to the Title IX Coordinator or other university employees will be shared only with individuals responsible for handling the university’s response to the incident. The university will protect the privacy of individuals involved in a sexual misconduct violence incident except as otherwise required by law or university policy. A report of sexual misconduct may result in the gathering of extremely sensitive information about individuals in the university community. While such information is considered confidential, university policy regarding access to public records and disclosure of personal information may require disclosure of certain information concerning a report of sexual misconduct. In such cases, efforts will be made to redact the records, as appropriate, in order to protect the victim’s identity and privacy and the privacy of other involved individuals. Except as detailed in the section on “Privileged and Confidential Communications” above, no university employee, including the Title IX Coordinator, should disclose the victim’s identity to the police without the victim’s consent or unless the victim has also reported the incident to the police.

If a victim requests of the Title IX Coordinator or another university employee that their identity remain completely confidential, the Title IX Coordinator will explain that the university cannot always honor that request or guarantee complete confidentiality. If a victim wishes to remain confidential or request that no investigation be conducted or disciplinary action taken, the university must weigh that request against the university’s obligation to provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students, employees, and third parties, including the victim. Under those circumstances, the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether the victim’s request for complete confidentiality and/or no investigation can be honored under the facts and circumstances of the particular case, including whether the university has a legal obligation to report the incident, conduct an investigation or take other appropriate steps. Without information about a victim’s identity, the university’s ability to meaningfully investigate the incident and pursue disciplinary action against the perpetrator may be severely limited. See the Systemwide Sex Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Dating and Domestic Violence, and Stalking Policy (or any successor policy) for further details around confidential reporting, and other related matters.

Additional Resources

• California State University, Los Angeles’ sexual misconduct prevention and education statement, which includes facts and myths about sexual violence, at https://www.calstatela.edu/hrm/oedi-title-ix
• U.S. Department of Education, regional office:

Office for Civil Rights
50 United Nations Plaza
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 486-5555
TDD (877) 521-2172
OCR SanFrancisco@ed.gov

• U.S. Department of Education, national headquarters:

Office for Civil Rights
(800) 421-3481
TDD (800) 877-8339
OCR@ed.gov

• California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (http://calcasa.org/)

1215 K. Street, Suite 1850
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 446-2520
California Coalition Against Sexual Assault Website

• Domestic and Family Violence, Office of Justice Programs, United States Department of Justice: Intimate Partner Violence    
• National Institute of Justice: Intimate Partner Violence, Office of Justice Programs, United States Department of Justice     
• National Domestic Violence Hotline and phone number 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) 
• Office of Violence against Women, United States Department of Justice 
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Intimate Partner Violence   

(Additional information may be found in the chapter of Procedures and Regulations )

Student Complaint Procedure (Complaints Regarding The CSU) 

The California State University (CSU) takes very seriously complaints and concerns regarding the institution. If you have a complaint regarding the CSU, you may present your complaint as follows:

1. If your complaint concerns CSU’s compliance with academic program quality and accrediting standards, you may present your complaint on the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) website. WASC is the agency that accredits the CSU’s academic program.
2. If your complaint concerns an alleged violation by CSU of any law that prohibits discrimination, harassment or retaliation based on a protected status (such as age, disability, gender (or sex), gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity (including color, caste, or ancestry), religion or veteran or military status), you may present your complaint as described in Section XVI (Nondiscrimination Policy).
3. If your complaint concerns an alleged violation by the CSU of other state law, including laws prohibiting fraud and false advertising, you may present your claim complaint to the university president or designee at 323-343-3030 (https://www.calstatela.edu/president/contact-us). See Procedure for Student Complaints-Executive Order No. 1063 for details regarding the complaint requirements and complaint process.
4. Other complaints regarding the CSU may be presented to the university dean of students, who will provide guidance on the appropriate university process for addressing your particular issue.

If you believe that your complaint warrants further attention after you have exhausted all the steps outlined by the university, or by WASC, you may file an appeal with the Assistant Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs (or designee) at the CSU Chancellor’s Office.

This procedure should not be construed to limit any right that you may have to take legal action to resolve your complaint.

Campus Nonviolence Policy

California State University, Los Angeles is committed to creating and maintaining a working, learning, and social environment for all members of the University community that is free from violence.

Civility, understanding, and mutual respect toward all members of the University community are intrinsic to excellence in teaching and learning, to the existence of a safe and healthful workplace, and to maintenance of a campus culture and environment that serves the needs of its many constituencies. Threats of violence or acts of violence not only impact the individuals concerned, but also the mission of the University to foster higher education through open dialogue and the free exchange of ideas. The University prohibits and will take decisive action to eliminate verbal harassment, violent acts, threats of violence, or any other behavior which by intent, action, or outcome harms another person. Such conduct is subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from employment, expulsion from the University, or civil or criminal prosecution as appropriate.

The University has no tolerance for violence against and by members of the University community. To fulfill this policy, the University will work to prevent violence from occurring and will ensure that federal and state laws, as well as University regulations prohibiting violence, are fully enforced. In determining whether conduct constitutes a credible threat or act of violence, the circumstances surrounding the conduct will be considered.

Established University faculty, staff, and student and Department of Public Safety procedures will serve as mechanisms for resolving situations of violence or threats of violence. Each allegation of violence or threat of violence will be taken seriously. Individuals are encouraged to report acts of violence, threats of violence, or any other behavior which by intent, act or outcome harms another person.

Approved by the Cal State L.A. Academic Senate and President James M. Rosser - Summer 1996

Consensual Sexual Relations Between Faculty and Students

“Sexual relations between students and faculty members with whom they also have an academic or evaluative relationship are fraught with the potential for exploitation. The respect and trust accorded a professor by a student, as well as the power exercised by the professor in an academic or evaluative role, make voluntary consent by the student suspect. Even when both parties initially have consented, the development of a sexual relationship renders both the faculty member and the institution vulnerable to possible later allegations of sexual harassment in light of the significant power differential that exists between faculty members and students.

“In their relationships with students, members of the faculty are expected to be aware of their professional responsibilities and avoid apparent or actual conflict of interest, favoritism, or bias.”*

It is unprofessional conduct for a faculty member to engage in any sexual relationship with a student while he or she is enrolled in that faculty member’s class, or if a faculty member is acting in any other capacity that may directly affect the student’s academic career.

Failure to follow these standards will be grounds for investigation or disciplinary action.

* The language in quotation marks is from the Statement adopted by the 81st Annual Meeting of the A.A.U.P.

Programs Leading to Licensure and Credentialing

Licensure and credentialing requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the CSU and requirements can change at any time. For example, licensure or credentialing requirements can include evidence of the right to work in the United States (e.g., social security number or taxpayer identification number) or successfully passing a criminal background check. Students are responsible for determining whether they can meet licensure or credentialing requirements. The CSU will not refund tuition, fees or any associated costs to students who determine subsequent to admission that they cannot meet licensure or credentialing requirements. Information concerning licensure and credentialing requirements is available from the Director of the International Programs Office, (323) 343-3170.

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students enrolled in a California State University program who are planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668 43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Privacy Rights of Students in Education Records (FERPA)

The Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (FERPA) and regulations adopted thereunder (34 C.F.R. 99) set out requirements designed to protect students’ privacy in their educational records maintained by the university. The statute and regulations govern access to certain student records maintained by the university and the release of those records. FERPA provides that the university must give a student access to most records directly related to the student and must also provide an opportunity to correct the records if the student believes the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate. The right to petition to correct a record under FERPA does not include the right to challenge the appropriateness of a grade determined by the instructor. In addition, FERPA generally requires the university obtain a student’s written consent before releasing personally identifiable data pertaining to the student. The university has adopted a set of policies and procedures governing the implementation of FERPA and its regulations. Copies of these policies and procedures may be obtained at  ITS Help Desk (323-343-6170) or visit in-person at the Library Palmer Wing Lobby during regular office hours. Among the information included in the university statement of policies and procedures is:

1. The student records maintained and the information they contain;
2. The university official responsible for maintaining each record;
3. The location of access lists identifying persons requesting or receiving information from the record;
4. Policies for reviewing and expunging records;
5. Student access rights to their records;
6. Procedure for challenging the content of student records; and
7. The student’s right to file a complaint with the Department of Education, which enforces FERPA. The Department of Education has established an office and review board to investigate complaints and adjudicate potential FERPA violations. The designated office is: Student Privacy Policy Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-5920.

FERPA authorizes that the university may release “directory information” pertaining to students. “Directory information” may include the student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status, degrees, honors, and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution the student attended. The university may release this “directory information” unless the university has received prior written objection from the student specifying the information the student requests not be released. Written objections must be sent to  ITS Help Desk (323-343-6170) or visit in-person at the Library Palmer Wing Lobby during regular office hours.

FERPA authorizes the university to provide access to student records without prior student consent to university officials, employees and others who have legitimate educational interests in such access. These persons include those with legitimate reasons to access student records to perform the university’s academic, administrative or service functions, and those with a reason for accessing student records associated with their university or other related academic responsibilities. Student records will also be disclosed to the CSU Chancellor’s Office to conduct research, to analyze trends, or to provide other administrative services. Student records may also be disclosed without prior student consent to other persons or organizations under certain conditions (e.g., as part of the accreditation or program evaluation, in response to a court order or subpoena, in connection with financial aid, or to other institutions to which the student is transferring).